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Greek art evolved through the Geometric (c. 900–700 BCE), Orientalizing (c. 700–600 BCE), Archaic (c. 600–480 BCE), and Classical (c. 480–323 BCE) periods. Initially, artists created works that were abstract and featured repetitive geometric shapes and stick figures, and influence from cultures the Greeks traded with was apparent. Over time, sculptures became less rigid and more realistic. As evidenced by the Archaic smile, emotion, movement, and humanism were introduced in the later periods.
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Etruscan art explored human experience, religion, and social identity. Artists emphasized lively expression, funerary rituals, and religious symbolism. Belief in an active, joyful afterlife was reflected in decorated tombs, from which a large portion of Etruscan art originates. Etruscan artwork emphasized individuality over idealized perfection. The art was primarily made from terracotta and bronze. Etruscans were skilled potters who created fine, black bucchero ware.
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Large vases serving as grave markers were first introduced during the Geometric period. The vase depicts the scene of a dead man, laying horizontally, surrounded by members of his household and mourners. The vase was found in Athens in "the city of clay", and was used to mix and carry wine and water.
Ancient Greek, Dipylon Krater, c. 750-735 BCE, MET Museum, https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/248904 -
Unlike normal-sized fibula that functioned to fasten garments, this is believed to be a grave offering. The techniques used to create this piece--granulation, filigree, and repousse, all originated in the east. The iconography (five lions, Egyptian goddess Hathor) reinforces royal icons and elitism.
Etruscan, Large Parade Fibula, Cerveteri, Regolini-Galassi Tomb, c. 675-650 BCE, Gregorian Etruscan Museum of the Vatican Museums, https://smarthistory.org/regolini-galassi-tomb-and-parade-fibula/ -
This rigid stance, with the left leg forward and arms to the side, was derived from Egyptian art. This statue marked the grave of a young Athenian aristocrat. Unlike other kouroi, the kouros in New York is not entirely nude: he wears a choker style necklace and a fillet in his hair. Scholars believe his rigid and stiff style may have been inspired by Egyptian art.
Ancient Greek, New York Kouros, c. 590-580 BCE, Metropolitan Museum of Art, https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/253370 -
This sarcophagus reflects Etruscan beliefs about the afterlife as a continuation of earthly life. The hieratic scale emphasizes a concept of more equal partnership between men and women than earlier art. It would have contained cremated remains, highlighting the importance of funerary customs among the community of the living.
Etruscan, Sarcophagus of the Spoused, c. 520 BCE, Cerveteri (Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia, Rome, https://smarthistory.org/sarcophagus-of-the-spouses-rome/ -
Seen as the period in which Greek culture reached the peak of its geographic influence, Hellenistic art pushed the boundaries of naturalism. This period saw great progression in the arts, sciences, and exploration. Artwork from this period is dynamic, theatrical, emotionally expressive, and intricate. Unseen in earlier periods, humanism was introduced. For the first time, artists depicted the poor in unidealized styles, and political opponents were given honor.
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Made up of approximately 1.5 million tesserae (small, cubed pieces of cut stone or glass), this mosaic once covered a floor in the Faun in Pompeii. Alexander the Great, appearing confidently, is depicted charging forward on a horse. His peaceful, balanced depiction contrasts the fearful, desperate right-hand side.
Hellenistic Period, Alexander Mosaic, c. 100 BCE, Archaeological Museum, Naples, https://smarthistory.org/alexander-mosaic-from-the-house-of-the-faun-pompeii/ -
The Seated Boxer depicts a defeated athlete. The material allowed for extreme detail. The boxer wears a weary expression, has bloody wounds, scars, and cauliflower ears. The figure is not idealized: his head is down, his posture is collapsing, and he appears exhausted. This signifies a period in Greek art that explores humility and humanity.
Ancient Greek, Apollonius, Boxer at Rest, c. 100 BCE, Palazzo Massimo, Museo Nazionale Romano, Rome, https://www.metmuseum.org/perspectives/the-boxer